Establishing a Reading Routine Before School Starts

As summer winds down and the excitement of a new school year approaches, many parents face a common challenge: how to prepare their children for the academic demands ahead. One effective way to ease this transition is by establishing a reading routine.

Imagine your child returning to school, not just able to read the words, but genuinely excited about the stories they encounter. They can discuss the themes and characters with confidence, thanks to the reading habits you've nurtured over the summer.

Let’s explore actionable steps to create a reading routine that supports your child's literacy development and helps them thrive in the upcoming school year.

Why a Reading Routine Matters

Creating a reading routine isn’t just about getting your child to read more; it’s about fostering a love for literature and improving comprehension skills. Research from the National Literacy Trust indicates that children who read regularly are more likely to perform better in school. A consistent reading routine can significantly enhance their vocabulary, fluency, and overall academic performance.

The Benefits of Reading Routines

1. Promotes Consistency: Regular reading helps establish a habit, making it easier for children to integrate reading into their daily lives.
2. Enhances Comprehension: Engaging with texts regularly improves understanding and retention of information (Stanford's Reading Lab).
3. Cultivates a Love for Reading: When reading is a fun and regular part of life, children are more likely to develop a lifelong passion for books.

Steps to Establish a Reading Routine

Creating a reading routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some practical steps you can take tonight to get started.

1. Choose a Consistent Time

Select a specific time each day dedicated to reading. This could be during bedtime, after school, or during breakfast. The key is to make it a non-negotiable part of your daily schedule.

Example:

If your child enjoys bedtime stories, read a chapter or two from a favorite book like Charlotte's Web every night. This not only prepares them for the school year but also creates a comforting routine.

2. Create a Reading Space

Designate a cozy reading nook at home, filled with pillows, good lighting, and a selection of books. This space should be inviting, making your child excited to read.

3. Set Goals Together

Involve your child in setting achievable reading goals. Perhaps aim for a certain number of books per week or explore different genres.

Example:

You might challenge your child to read five books from varying categories: fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and graphic novels. This diverse selection can broaden their interests and improve their comprehension skills.

4. Use Engaging Materials

Incorporate a mix of books that cater to your child's interests and reading level. Consider introducing series like The Magic Tree House or Dog Man to keep them engaged.

5. Discuss What They Read

After every reading session, encourage your child to talk about the story. Ask open-ended questions to stimulate their thinking.

Questions to Ask:

• What was your favorite part of the story?
• Which character did you relate to the most and why?
• How do you think the story could have ended differently?

Such discussions help reinforce comprehension skills and encourage critical thinking.

Incorporating Family Reading Time

Adding family reading time can strengthen bonds while promoting literacy. Set aside one evening a week where the entire family reads together. This can be a mix of individual reading and shared stories.

Example Activity: Family Reading Night

Choose a book that everyone can enjoy, such as The Gruffalo, and take turns reading aloud. Not only does this encourage participation, but it also allows for discussions about the book afterward.

In fact, research by Dr. Grover Whitehurst highlights that dialogic reading—where parents interact with children during reading sessions—enhances vocabulary and comprehension significantly.

Making Reading a Fun Adventure

To keep your child motivated, infuse elements of fun into the routine. Consider incorporating themed reading nights where you pair books with related activities or snacks.

Example: Themed Reading Nights

If your child is reading The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, you might host a “Narnia Night” with hot cocoa and themed games. This not only makes reading enjoyable but also reinforces the stories in a memorable way.

Resources to Support Your Routine

To help you along the way, consider utilizing resources like WeRead's approach to get your child more excited about reading. Our complete guide to reading routines offers additional tips and strategies for success.

Recommended Books

Here are a few more book titles to consider that can be part of your reading routine:

• Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
• The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss

These stories are not only engaging but also provide opportunities for rich discussions.

Conclusion

Establishing a consistent reading routine before school starts can set your child up for success. It lays the foundation for lifelong learning, enhances their comprehension skills, and fosters a love for reading. By integrating these strategies into your daily life, you’ll be making a valuable investment in your child’s educational journey.

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About the Author

Written by Kelly Farmer, an ESL educator with 22 years of experience teaching English in Japan. Kelly founded Jabble English schools and created the WeRead Method while teaching his own bilingual child.

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For more strategies, see our article on Reading Routines for additional insights.

For more strategies, see our article on Back To School Prep for additional insights.

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